This disclosure provides methods, devices and systems for sharing resources of a wireless medium. Particular implementations relate more specifically to coordinated AP (CAP) time-division-multiple-access (TDMA) and orthogonal-frequency-division-multiple access (OFDMA) techniques for sharing the time or frequency resources of a transmission opportunity (TXOP). According to such techniques, an AP that wins contention and gains access to the wireless medium for the duration of a TXOP may share its time or frequency resources with other selected APs. To share its resources, the winning AP may partition the TXOP into multiple time or frequency segments each including respective time or frequency resources representing a portion of the TXOP, and allocate each of the time or frequency segments to itself or to one of the selected APs.
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2. The method of claim 1, further comprising, based on the scheduling information including the first access point identifier, updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector for the first BSS, the intra-BSS network allocation vector permitting the first wireless station to transmit data to the first wireless access point only in response to receiving a trigger frame from the first wireless access point in the portion of the transmission opportunity allocated to the first wireless access point.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing data transmission in a wireless local area network (WLAN) environment with multiple basic service sets (BSSs). The problem addressed is efficient coordination of data transmission between wireless stations and access points in overlapping BSSs to avoid interference and optimize bandwidth usage. The method involves updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector (NAV) for a first BSS based on scheduling information that includes an identifier for a first access point. The intra-BSS NAV is a mechanism that controls when wireless stations within the BSS can transmit data. Specifically, the NAV is set to permit a first wireless station to transmit data to the first wireless access point only after receiving a trigger frame from the access point during a portion of a transmission opportunity allocated to that access point. This ensures that transmissions are synchronized with the access point's scheduling, reducing collisions and improving network efficiency in environments where multiple BSSs may overlap or interfere with each other. The method enhances coordination between stations and access points, particularly in dense or congested wireless networks.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising, in response to detecting a third packet during the transmission opportunity from the first wireless access point or from another wireless station in the first BSS, updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector based on a duration indicated in the third packet.
Wireless communication systems, particularly in Wi-Fi networks, must efficiently manage medium access to avoid collisions and ensure fair sharing of the communication channel. A key challenge is accurately tracking the duration for which the medium is reserved by ongoing transmissions, which is typically done using a Network Allocation Vector (NAV). The NAV prevents other stations from transmitting during a reserved period, but inaccuracies in NAV updates can lead to inefficiencies or collisions. This invention addresses the problem by improving NAV management in a Basic Service Set (BSS) during a transmission opportunity (TXOP). When a third packet is detected from either the first wireless access point or another station within the BSS during the TXOP, the system updates the intra-BSS NAV based on the duration field in the third packet. This ensures that the NAV reflects the latest medium reservation, preventing premature transmissions and reducing collisions. The method dynamically adjusts the NAV to account for ongoing transmissions, enhancing channel utilization and fairness. The solution is particularly useful in dense wireless environments where multiple stations compete for access, ensuring that the NAV accurately reflects the current state of the medium.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising, in response to detecting the second packet, updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector based on a duration indicated in the second packet.
The invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for managing network allocation vectors (NAVs) in wireless local area networks (WLANs). The problem addressed is the need to efficiently update NAVs in response to detecting packets within a basic service set (BSS) to prevent transmission collisions and ensure proper medium access control (MAC) coordination. The method involves detecting a second packet within the BSS, where the second packet includes a duration field indicating the time required for an upcoming transmission. Upon detecting this packet, the NAV is updated based on the duration value specified in the packet. This ensures that other devices in the BSS defer their transmissions for the indicated duration, avoiding interference and maintaining orderly communication. The NAV update process is part of a broader method for managing wireless transmissions, which may also include detecting a first packet, determining its source, and adjusting transmission parameters accordingly. The method is particularly useful in dense wireless environments where multiple devices compete for channel access, helping to reduce collisions and improve network efficiency. The invention enhances existing WLAN protocols by dynamically adapting NAV settings to real-time traffic conditions.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising, in response to detecting the second packet, refraining from updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for managing network allocation vectors (NAVs) in wireless local area networks (WLANs) to improve efficiency and reduce contention. The problem addressed is the unnecessary extension of NAVs in response to certain types of packets, which can lead to inefficient channel usage and increased latency. The method involves detecting a second packet in a basic service set (BSS) and, in response, refraining from updating the intra-BSS NAV. The intra-BSS NAV is a timer used to indicate the duration for which a station must defer transmissions to avoid collisions with ongoing transmissions within the same BSS. By selectively not updating the NAV upon detecting the second packet, the method prevents unnecessary extensions of the NAV, allowing other stations to access the channel sooner and reducing contention. The second packet may be a type of frame that does not require NAV updates, such as a control frame or a management frame that does not affect medium access. The method ensures that only relevant packets trigger NAV updates, optimizing channel access and improving overall network performance. This approach is particularly useful in dense WLAN environments where minimizing unnecessary NAV extensions is critical for maintaining efficient communication.
7. The wireless communication device of claim 6, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, based on the scheduling information including the first access point identifier, update an intra-BSS network allocation vector for the first BSS, the intra- BSS network allocation vector permitting the wireless communication device to transmit data to the first wireless access point only in response to receiving a trigger frame from the first wireless access point in the portion of the transmission opportunity allocated to the first wireless access point.
Wireless communication devices in a basic service set (BSS) must coordinate transmissions to avoid collisions, particularly in environments with multiple access points (APs) and overlapping BSSs. A key challenge is efficiently managing transmission opportunities (TXOPs) allocated to different APs while ensuring fair and collision-free communication. Existing solutions often rely on static or inefficient scheduling mechanisms, leading to underutilized bandwidth or increased contention. This invention addresses the problem by dynamically updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector (NAV) for a wireless communication device based on scheduling information that includes an access point identifier. The intra-BSS NAV restricts the device's transmissions to the first AP only when a trigger frame is received during the AP's allocated TXOP portion. This ensures that the device transmits data to the correct AP at the correct time, reducing collisions and improving network efficiency. The scheduling information, which may be received from a central controller or another AP, enables precise coordination of transmissions across multiple BSSs. The device's processor executes code to enforce this NAV update, dynamically adjusting transmission permissions based on real-time scheduling data. This approach enhances spectral efficiency and supports seamless operation in dense wireless networks with overlapping APs.
8. The wireless communication device of claim 6, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, in response to detecting a third packet during the transmission opportunity from the first wireless access point or from another wireless station in the first BSS, update an intra-BSS network allocation vector based on a duration indicated in the third packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication devices operating in a basic service set (BSS) and addresses the challenge of managing transmission opportunities and avoiding collisions in shared wireless networks. The device includes at least one processor and memory storing code that, when executed, enables the device to handle packet transmissions and receptions during a transmission opportunity (TXOP). Specifically, the device detects a third packet from either the first wireless access point or another wireless station within the same BSS during the TXOP. In response, the device updates an intra-BSS network allocation vector (NAV) based on the duration value indicated in the third packet. The NAV is a virtual carrier-sensing mechanism that prevents collisions by indicating the medium is busy for a specified duration. This update ensures that the device respects the transmission rights of other stations in the BSS, maintaining orderly communication. The invention builds on prior functionality that allows the device to transmit a first packet to a first wireless access point during a TXOP and receive a second packet from the first wireless access point, also during the TXOP. The device may also adjust its NAV based on the duration of the second packet, further refining its collision avoidance strategy. This solution enhances wireless network efficiency by dynamically adapting to ongoing transmissions within the BSS.
9. The wireless communication device of claim 6, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, in response to detecting the second packet, update an intra- BSS network allocation vector based on a duration indicated in the second packet.
Wireless communication devices in a basic service set (BSS) must manage medium access to avoid collisions and ensure efficient data transmission. A key challenge is accurately tracking the duration for which the wireless medium is reserved by other devices, which is typically done using a network allocation vector (NAV). The NAV indicates the time remaining before the medium becomes available for transmission. However, in intra-BSS communications, devices must update their NAV based on received packets to reflect the correct medium reservation duration. This invention addresses this problem by providing a wireless communication device that updates its intra-BSS NAV in response to detecting a second packet. The device includes at least one processor and memory storing code executable by the processor. The code is configured to detect the second packet, which contains a duration field indicating the time the medium will be reserved. Upon detecting this packet, the device updates its intra-BSS NAV based on the duration specified in the packet. This ensures that the device accurately reflects the medium reservation status, preventing premature transmissions and reducing collisions. The solution enhances medium access control efficiency in wireless networks by dynamically adjusting the NAV based on real-time packet information.
10. The wireless communication device of claim 6, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, in response to detecting the second packet, refrain from updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector.
A wireless communication device operates in a network environment where multiple devices share a communication medium, such as a wireless local area network (WLAN). A key challenge in such networks is managing medium access to avoid collisions and ensure efficient data transmission. One method to achieve this is by using a network allocation vector (NAV), which indicates the duration for which the medium is reserved for ongoing transmissions. However, in certain scenarios, such as when a device detects a packet from another device within the same basic service set (BSS), updating the NAV may be unnecessary or counterproductive. The wireless communication device includes at least one processor and memory storing executable code. The code, when executed, enables the device to detect a second packet transmitted by another device within the same BSS. In response to detecting this packet, the device refrains from updating its intra-BSS NAV. This prevents the NAV from being extended unnecessarily, which could otherwise lead to inefficient medium usage. By avoiding NAV updates in such cases, the device ensures that the medium remains available for other transmissions when appropriate, improving overall network efficiency. The device may also perform other functions, such as transmitting or receiving data packets, managing medium access, and coordinating with other devices in the network. The solution is particularly useful in dense network environments where medium contention is high.
12. The method of claim 11, further comprising transmitting a second packet to the one or more wireless stations in the first BSS that includes at least a portion of the scheduling information including the one or more access point identifiers and the indication of the one or more portions of the transmission opportunity allocated to the first wireless access point, wherein the second packet includes a duration field indicating a duration of the transmission opportunity.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing transmission opportunities in a wireless local area network (WLAN) environment with multiple basic service sets (BSSs). The problem addressed is efficient coordination of transmission opportunities among multiple access points (APs) to avoid interference and improve network performance in overlapping BSS scenarios. The method involves a first wireless access point (AP) receiving scheduling information from a second AP, where the scheduling information includes identifiers for one or more APs and an indication of allocated portions of a transmission opportunity (TXOP). The first AP then transmits a second packet to one or more wireless stations in its BSS, containing at least part of this scheduling information. This second packet includes a duration field specifying the duration of the TXOP, allowing stations to understand the timing and allocation of the transmission opportunity. The method ensures that stations in the first BSS are aware of the TXOP allocations, reducing collisions and improving coordination between overlapping BSSs. The approach enhances coexistence in dense WLAN deployments by dynamically sharing TXOP information among APs.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first packet includes a trigger frame configured to trigger, based on an inclusion of the first access point identifier, the first wireless access point to transmit the second packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for triggering packet transmission between wireless access points. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and coordinated communication between access points in a network, particularly in scenarios where one access point must prompt another to transmit data. The invention describes a method where a first packet is sent to a first wireless access point, containing a trigger frame that includes an identifier for the first access point. This trigger frame is designed to cause the first access point to transmit a second packet in response. The second packet may contain data or instructions for other devices in the network. The method ensures that the first access point recognizes the trigger frame and responds appropriately, facilitating seamless communication and coordination between access points. This approach is useful in environments where multiple access points must work together to manage network traffic, such as in mesh networks or distributed wireless systems. The invention improves efficiency by reducing the need for constant polling or manual intervention, allowing the network to dynamically adjust to changing conditions.
14. The method of claim 11, further comprising, based on the scheduling information including the first access point identifier, updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector for the first BSS based on a duration of the transmission opportunity.
Wireless communication systems, particularly in environments with multiple Basic Service Sets (BSSs), face challenges in managing medium access and avoiding collisions. When a device in one BSS transmits, other devices in the same or neighboring BSSs must defer their transmissions to prevent interference. The Network Allocation Vector (NAV) is a mechanism that indicates the duration for which a device must wait before accessing the medium. However, in multi-BSS environments, coordinating NAVs across BSSs is complex, leading to inefficiencies and potential collisions. This invention addresses this problem by improving NAV management in intra-BSS communications. Specifically, when scheduling information for a transmission opportunity includes an identifier for a first access point (AP), the system updates the intra-BSS NAV for the first BSS based on the duration of the transmission opportunity. This ensures that devices in the first BSS defer appropriately during the transmission, reducing collisions and improving medium utilization. The scheduling information may be obtained from a scheduling entity, such as a central controller or an AP, and the NAV update is performed dynamically to reflect the current transmission conditions. This method enhances coordination between devices in the same BSS, particularly in dense or overlapping BSS deployments, where efficient medium access is critical. The approach may be applied in various wireless standards, including Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) and other wireless local area networks (WLANs).
15. The method of claim 11, further comprising, based on the scheduling information including the first access point identifier, refraining from updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector for the first BSS.
Wireless communication systems, particularly those operating in unlicensed frequency bands, must manage interference between neighboring basic service sets (BSSs) to ensure reliable data transmission. A key challenge is coordinating medium access control (MAC) protocols to avoid collisions and optimize network performance. Existing solutions often rely on network allocation vectors (NAVs) to indicate busy periods, but these can lead to inefficiencies when multiple BSSs share the same channel. This invention addresses the problem by refining the handling of scheduling information in wireless networks. Specifically, when scheduling information includes an identifier for a first access point (AP), the system refrains from updating the intra-BSS NAV for the first BSS. This prevents unnecessary NAV updates that could otherwise disrupt ongoing transmissions within the BSS. The method ensures that only relevant scheduling information triggers NAV adjustments, reducing overhead and improving medium access efficiency. The approach is particularly useful in dense wireless environments where multiple APs operate in close proximity, as it minimizes interference while maintaining coordination between BSSs. By selectively updating NAVs based on AP identifiers, the system optimizes channel utilization and enhances overall network performance.
16. The method of claim 11, further comprising, in response to detecting a third packet, updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector based on a duration indicated in the third packet.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to managing medium access control (MAC) in wireless local area networks (WLANs). The problem addressed is ensuring efficient and collision-free communication within a basic service set (BSS) by accurately tracking medium occupancy. The method involves monitoring wireless packets to determine medium usage. When a third packet is detected, the system updates an intra-BSS network allocation vector (NAV) based on a duration value specified in the packet. The NAV is a timer used to reserve the wireless medium for a certain period, preventing other devices from transmitting during that time. By updating the NAV in response to the third packet, the system ensures that all devices within the BSS are aware of the medium reservation, reducing collisions and improving communication efficiency. The method may also include detecting a first packet and a second packet, where the first packet is a data packet and the second packet is a control packet. The system may then determine whether the first packet and the second packet are associated with the same transmission opportunity (TXOP). If they are, the system may update the NAV based on the duration in the second packet. This ensures that the NAV accurately reflects the total medium reservation for the ongoing transmission, even if multiple packets are involved. The method may further include adjusting the NAV based on the duration of the first packet, ensuring that the medium is reserved for the correct duration.
17. The method of claim 11, further comprising, in response to detecting a third packet, refraining from updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector.
A method for managing network allocation vectors (NAVs) in wireless communication systems, particularly in environments with multiple basic service sets (BSSs), addresses the problem of inefficient channel access due to unnecessary NAV updates. The method involves detecting packets within a BSS and selectively updating the intra-BSS NAV to prevent interference with ongoing transmissions. Specifically, when a third packet is detected, the method refrains from updating the intra-BSS NAV, allowing other devices in the same BSS to continue transmitting without unnecessary delays. This selective NAV update mechanism improves channel utilization by avoiding false NAV extensions caused by irrelevant packets, such as those from neighboring BSSs. The method operates within a broader system that includes packet detection, NAV management, and channel access control, ensuring efficient coexistence of multiple wireless networks in overlapping environments. By dynamically adjusting NAV updates based on packet origin, the method enhances throughput and reduces latency in dense wireless deployments.
19. The wireless communication device of claim 18, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to transmitting a second packet to the one or more wireless stations in the first BSS that includes at least a portion of the scheduling information including the one or more access point identifiers and the indication of the one or more portions of the transmission opportunity allocated to the first wireless access point, wherein the second packet includes a duration field indicating a duration of the transmission opportunity.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving coordination between multiple access points (APs) in a basic service set (BSS) to manage transmission opportunities (TXOPs) and avoid interference. The problem addressed is the lack of efficient scheduling mechanisms in dense wireless networks where multiple APs operate in overlapping channels, leading to collisions and reduced throughput. The invention describes a wireless communication device, such as an access point, that includes at least one processor and memory storing code. The code, when executed, enables the device to transmit a second packet to one or more wireless stations in a BSS. This packet contains scheduling information, including identifiers for one or more APs and an indication of the portions of a TXOP allocated to a first AP. The packet also includes a duration field specifying the duration of the TXOP, allowing stations to synchronize their transmissions and avoid conflicts. The scheduling information ensures that multiple APs can share the channel efficiently without overlapping transmissions, improving overall network performance. The solution enhances coordination in multi-AP environments by providing clear allocation details and timing constraints, reducing interference and improving data throughput.
20. The wireless communication device of claim 19, wherein the first packet includes a trigger frame configured to trigger, based on an inclusion of the first access point identifier, the first wireless access point to transmit the second packet.
Wireless communication systems often face challenges in efficiently managing data transmission between devices and access points, particularly in environments with multiple access points. This invention addresses the need for improved coordination between wireless communication devices and access points to reduce latency and enhance network performance. The invention involves a wireless communication device that receives a first packet from a first wireless access point. The first packet includes a trigger frame that contains a first access point identifier. This trigger frame is specifically configured to prompt the first wireless access point to transmit a second packet based on the inclusion of the first access point identifier. The second packet may contain data or control information that the wireless communication device requires for its operations. The trigger frame ensures that the first wireless access point responds promptly, reducing delays in data transmission and improving overall network efficiency. This mechanism is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple access points are present, as it allows the wireless communication device to selectively trigger transmissions from specific access points, thereby optimizing resource usage and minimizing interference. The invention enhances the reliability and speed of wireless communications by ensuring that data is transmitted in a coordinated and timely manner.
21. The wireless communication device of claim 18, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, based on the scheduling information including the first access point identifier, update an intra-BSS network allocation vector for the first BSS based on a duration of the transmission opportunity.
Wireless communication devices in a network must manage medium access to avoid collisions and ensure efficient data transmission. A key challenge is coordinating transmissions between multiple access points (APs) and stations (STAs) in overlapping basic service sets (BSSs) to prevent interference. Existing solutions rely on network allocation vectors (NAVs) to reserve the medium for a specific duration, but these mechanisms often lack flexibility in dynamic environments where multiple BSSs coexist. This invention addresses the problem by enhancing a wireless communication device with improved NAV management. The device receives scheduling information that includes an identifier for a first access point (AP) and determines a transmission opportunity (TXOP) duration associated with that AP. Based on this information, the device updates an intra-BSS NAV for the first BSS, adjusting the NAV duration to reflect the TXOP. This ensures that other devices in the same BSS defer transmissions appropriately, reducing collisions and improving efficiency. The solution dynamically adapts to scheduling changes, allowing seamless coexistence with neighboring BSSs. The device may also include additional features, such as receiving and processing scheduling information from multiple APs, adjusting NAVs for different BSSs, and coordinating with other devices to optimize medium access. This approach enhances reliability and throughput in dense wireless networks.
22. The wireless communication device of claim 18, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, based on the scheduling information including the first access point identifier, refrain from updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector for the first BSS.
This invention relates to wireless communication devices operating in wireless local area networks (WLANs), specifically addressing issues related to network allocation vector (NAV) updates in overlapping basic service sets (BSSs). The problem solved is the unnecessary updating of the intra-BSS NAV when a device receives scheduling information from a different BSS, which can lead to inefficient channel usage and reduced network performance. The wireless communication device includes at least one processor and memory storing code executable by the processor. The device is configured to receive scheduling information from an access point, where the scheduling information includes an identifier for a first BSS. The device determines whether the scheduling information pertains to its own BSS or an overlapping BSS. If the scheduling information includes the first access point identifier, the device refrains from updating its intra-BSS NAV for the first BSS. This prevents the device from unnecessarily deferring transmissions when the scheduling information is not relevant to its own BSS, improving channel efficiency and reducing contention. The device may also be configured to update the intra-BSS NAV only when the scheduling information pertains to its own BSS, ensuring that NAV updates are performed selectively. This selective NAV update mechanism helps avoid unnecessary delays in data transmission and improves overall network throughput in environments with overlapping BSSs. The invention is particularly useful in dense WLAN deployments where multiple BSSs operate in close proximity.
23. The wireless communication device of claim 18, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, in response to detecting a third packet, update an intra-BSS network allocation vector based on a duration indicated in the third packet.
Wireless communication devices in a basic service set (BSS) must manage medium access to avoid collisions. A key challenge is accurately tracking the network allocation vector (NAV), which indicates when the wireless medium is busy. Existing solutions may not efficiently update the NAV for intra-BSS communications, leading to inefficiencies or collisions. This invention improves NAV management by dynamically updating the intra-BSS NAV in response to detecting a third packet. The device includes at least one processor and code that, when executed, processes packets to determine medium availability. Upon detecting a third packet, the device extracts a duration value from the packet and updates the intra-BSS NAV accordingly. This ensures that the device accurately reflects the medium's busy state, reducing collisions and improving communication efficiency. The solution applies to wireless communication devices operating in a BSS, where multiple devices share the same wireless medium. The method enhances existing NAV mechanisms by incorporating real-time packet data to adjust the NAV dynamically, addressing limitations in static or less responsive approaches. The invention is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where precise medium management is critical.
24. The wireless communication device of claim 18, wherein the code, when executed by the at least one processor, is further configured to, in response to detecting a third packet, refrain from updating an intra-BSS network allocation vector.
A wireless communication device operates in a network environment where multiple devices share a communication medium, such as a wireless local area network (WLAN). The device includes at least one processor and memory storing code that, when executed, enables the device to manage network allocations and avoid unnecessary updates to its network allocation vector (NAV). The NAV is a timer used to track reserved time slots for ongoing transmissions within the same basic service set (BSS) to prevent collisions. The device monitors incoming packets and updates its NAV based on detected transmissions. However, to improve efficiency, the device is configured to refrain from updating the NAV in response to detecting a specific type of packet, such as a third packet, which may not require NAV adjustments. This selective NAV update mechanism reduces unnecessary processing overhead and improves overall network performance by avoiding unnecessary delays in medium access. The device may also include additional features, such as adjusting transmission parameters or prioritizing certain traffic types, to further optimize communication efficiency. The solution addresses the problem of inefficient NAV management in dense or high-traffic wireless networks, where frequent NAV updates can lead to unnecessary delays and reduced throughput.
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February 18, 2021
April 16, 2024
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